The present invention provides a method for increasing metabolism and/or energy expenditure in a subject, e.g., to treat or prevent obesity and/or a related condition and/or the reduce adiposity, the method comprising increasing the level and/or activity of Hypoxia Induced Factor 1α (HIF-1α) in a cell, tissue or organ of the subject, thereby increasing metabolism in the subject. The present invention also provides a method for increasing metabolism in a subject, the method comprising administering an iron chelating agent to the subject, thereby increasing metabolism in the subject.
